La Cocina Premiere Laredo

La Cocina, the latest feature from acclaimed Mexican filmmaker Alonso Ruizpalacios, starring Rooney Mara and Raúl Briones, will hold its official U.S./Mexico border premiere in Laredo, Texas on October 30, 2024. Described by The Hollywood Reporter as "an explosive account of immigrant restaurant workers chasing the American Dream" and hailed as “a singular masterwork" by RogerEbert.com, the film explores the invisible lives of the people who keep America’s kitchens running.

Following its debut at the Berlinale Film Festival, La Cocina captures the intense pace of a bustling Times Square restaurant, The Grill. When money mysteriously vanishes from the cash register, suspicion quickly falls on Pedro (Briones), an undocumented cook with dreams of a better life. His relationship with Julia (Mara), an American waitress battling her own inner conflicts, takes a turn when a shocking revelation forces Pedro toward a decision that could bring down the entire restaurant. The film poignantly blends comedy and tragedy in its tribute to the often unseen workforce at the heart of American dining, all while questioning the elusive nature of the American dream.

Ruizpalacios, known for his masterful storytelling, shared the inspiration behind the film: “I’ve always wanted to tell a story about what happens after crossing the border. Migrant films are almost a genre in Mexico, but few focus on what happens on the other side. Whether the dream is realized or shattered is what makes this narrative compelling. The stories I encountered in my research were both beautiful and heartbreaking, and they reflect the cost of chasing that dream.”

The special screening in Laredo will take place at Laredo College, located on the banks of the Rio Grande River, just feet from the U.S./Mexico border. The event, organized by the Daphne Art Foundation and Grupo Alexander, in partnership with U.S. distributor WILLA, is free to attend with prior registration, with a special focus on inviting students and community members to see the film. A bilingual panel discussion will follow, featuring film actress Anna Diaz and local advocate Sister Rosemary Welsh, Sister of Mercy, providing a space for dialogue with the audience.

The special screening of La Cocina will take place at Laredo College Visual and Performing Arts Center on October 30, 2024 at 6pm.

Film trailer is here.

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